I’ve been keeping a list on my phone of tips that make life easier by saving time or money. I meant to share them in separate posts, but the list kept growing, and it was tough to fit them into topics like detoxing or health conditions. So, I decided to gather them into one post full of hacks that can help us all do more with less time and maybe enjoy a bit more relaxation.
Feel free to share your favorite life-changing tips in the comments! Here’s a roundup of my “mommy hacks,” which save time or money or are just plain convenient (like getting an Ecocentric Mom Box delivered to your door). These little discoveries improved my daily life, so I hope they help you too.
I’m not a fan of antibacterial soaps, but kids somehow manage to find germs everywhere. While I’m fine with a little dirt, gym floors and public bathrooms are where I draw the line. My kids also frequently spill things that make stubborn stains on their clothes, from paint to beet juice.
I’ve found that keeping baby wipes in my purse, even when I’m not with my diaper-wearing baby, is a game-changer. They work as hand wipes, stain removers, and for cleaning surfaces at restaurants and airports.
I wish I had known this trick years ago—it would’ve saved a ton of lettuce! A friend taught me to wash, dry, and store greens in glass mason jars. They stay fresh for up to two weeks instead of just a few days.
For convenience, I also prepare salads in these jars. I layer the protein and dressing at the bottom, add chopped veggies, and place the greens on top. They’re perfect for grab-and-go meals during busy weeks. Just shake the jar to mix in the dressing and pour it onto a plate when you’re ready to eat. This is a hack that benefits the whole family!
I don’t consider myself a fashion expert; I’m more of a yoga pants kind of person. But I recently broke my no-fashion-blogging rule after discovering lace extenders. These camisoles go under shirts to add length and a touch of style. Being long-waisted, I no longer prefer the midriff styles from my college days, but I still love some of those shirts, now considered vintage. These extenders have expanded my wardrobe, pairing well with shirts, cardigans, and sweaters.
In an ideal world, I’d wake up early, work out, and get through my routine before the kids are up. Reality, however, means that often I’m working on a deadline or the kids wake early. On those days, dry shampoo is a blessing.
Socks in our house are like a puzzle—they always seem mismatched. My daughter came up with the idea to make heat packs from old socks and discovered we could use them for mopping too. Just spray a little cleaner on the floor, let the kids skate over it in layers of mismatched socks, and voila—a fun activity and a clean floor!
We know tampons and pads aren’t the healthiest options, right? The menstrual cup has been such a time, money, and hassle saver for me, even though it took some getting used to. It’s like not having a period even when you do. If it’s uncomfortable or leaks, try turning it inside out.
With six kids, refillable hand soap dispensers that foam have been a lifesaver, extending how long soap lasts. I use a non-toxic soap concentrate, mix with water, and it lasts much longer—sometimes a week or even a month!
Whitening teeth naturally with coconut charcoal is as transformative as a bit of mascara. It sounds odd and looks stranger with black teeth, but it works. If you want an extra boost, there’s an LED light system with a tray for applying the charcoal.
After years of being a mom, I’ve realized how crucial sleep is—probably more so than diet or exercise. Although it might seem contradictory, prioritizing sleep is essential. Here’s the routine that has helped me optimize whatever sleep I can manage.
There are so many other life-changing mommy hacks out there, so please share your go-to tips that make motherhood easier and more enjoyable in the comments. Let’s learn from each other!
This piece has been medically reviewed by Dr. Sheila Kilbane, MD, a board-certified pediatrician specializing in integrative medicine. Please consult with your doctor for personalized advice.
